You are probably building an African or South American chichlid tank. In these cases slate rock helps mimic the natural environment as well as regulate alkalinity, which these waters have a high amount of. Use natural slate from the fish store as well as alkalinity boosters. Test your pH often as you want it to be around 8. 2.

Aquarium slate is a special rock used as aquarium decor because it will not alter the chemical makeup or other water conditions. It is also used in aquariums meant to hold reptiles because it holds heat that they need to survive.

Aquarium slate is very useful if you are attempting to breed your fish. It provides a nice, flat surface for the eggs to attach to. It also is a very attractive tank decoration that makes interesting hiding places for the fish.